For years, Instagram limited carousel posts to just 10 photos or videos, which often left creators and brands wishing they could showcase more in a single post. This cap made it challenging for users who wanted to share event highlights, tutorials, or product showcases without breaking them into multiple uploads. In 2024, Instagram introduced an update that finally expanded the limit to 20 slides, giving users double the space for creativity. However, not everyone has access to this feature, and many still ask why they can’t post beyond the old 10-photo limit. If you’ve faced this issue, you’re not alone. The ability to post more than 10 photos on Instagram depends on several factors, and that’s exactly what this guide will help you uncover.
Before diving into troubleshooting and fixes, it’s important to understand how the new carousel feature works and why it may not appear for every account. Instagram often rolls out updates gradually, meaning some users get new features earlier than others. Factors like your app version, device compatibility, and even regional availability can affect whether you see the 20-photo option. In this beginner-friendly guide, we’ll walk you through step-by-step methods on how to post more than 10 photos on Instagram, explain why the feature may be missing for some users, and share tips to boost engagement with larger carousels. By the end, you’ll know exactly how to make the most of your posts.
How to Post More Than 10 Photos on Instagram
Sharing multiple photos in a single Instagram carousel is one of the best ways to tell a complete story or showcase an event. With the latest updates, you can now add up to 20 photos or videos in one post, making it easier to capture moments without breaking them into separate uploads. Whether you’re a beginner or someone upgrading from the 10-photo limit, the process is simple once you know where to look. Follow the steps below to start creating engaging carousels on Instagram.
Step 1: Open Instagram and Tap the “+” Icon
Begin by opening your Instagram app. On the home screen, locate the “+” icon—you’ll usually see it in the top-right or bottom menu of your screen. Tapping this button is your gateway to creating a new post, Story, or Reel.
Step 2: Choose “Post”
From the menu that appears, select the “Post” option. This ensures you’re setting up a regular feed post rather than a Story or Reel.
Step 3: Select the Multi-Photo Option
Tap the icon that looks like a stack of squares. This option allows you to select multiple photos or videos, turning your upload into a carousel post.
Step 4: Pick Up to 20 Photos or Videos
Browse your gallery and select the media files you want to share. You can now add up to 20 items in one post. If you’d like to rearrange the order, press and hold any thumbnail, then drag it to your preferred spot.
Step 5: Edit and Apply Filters
Instagram allows you to edit each image or video individually. Add filters, crop, or adjust brightness to keep your carousel visually consistent and appealing.
Step 6: Add Captions, Hashtags, and Location
Enhance engagement by writing a compelling caption, adding hashtags, tagging friends, and setting a location. This helps increase visibility and interaction with your post.
Step 7: Share Your Carousel
Once you’re happy with your edits and details, tap “Share”. Your carousel post with more than 10 photos will now appear in your feed, ready to engage your audience.
Why You Might Still Be Limited to 10 Photos
Even though Instagram has expanded the carousel limit to 20 photos or videos, not every user can access this feature right away. If you find yourself restricted to the older 10-photo limit, there are a few common reasons why this might be happening. Below are the most likely causes along with practical fixes you can try.
App Update Issues
The new carousel feature is only available on the latest versions of the Instagram app. If you’re still on an outdated version, your account will remain capped at 10 photos. Make sure to check your device’s app store for updates and install the newest release. Once updated, reopen the app and try creating a new carousel to see if the 20-photo option appears.
Cache and Data Problems
Sometimes, leftover cache files or corrupted data can block new features from appearing in the app. Clearing the cache or reinstalling Instagram often refreshes the app and unlocks updates. On most devices, you can clear cache in the settings, while iPhone users may need to delete and reinstall the app for a clean start. After doing this, log back in and test the carousel feature again.
Account and Device Restrictions
Not all accounts receive updates at the same time. Business profiles, for example, sometimes get new features before personal ones. Additionally, if you are using an older device or a phone with an outdated operating system, it may not fully support the 20-photo carousel. Ensuring your device software is up to date can help reduce these limitations.
Regional Rollout
Instagram frequently introduces new tools in phases, rolling them out gradually by region. This means some users may gain access earlier than others depending on where they are located. If you’ve updated the app and tried all other fixes but still don’t see the option, the update may not have reached your country or region yet. In that case, waiting a little longer is often the only solution.
How to Fix If the 20-Photo Feature Still Doesn’t Work
If your Instagram app is still restricted to only 10 photos even after updates, don’t worry—there are several ways you can troubleshoot the issue. Below are the most effective methods to try when the 20-photo carousel option doesn’t appear on your account.
Device-Specific Adjustments
The first step is to make sure your device itself is compatible with the latest Instagram updates. For iPhone users, Instagram’s new features usually require iOS 15 or later, which means older iPhones may not support the expanded carousel feature. If you are using Android, check that your phone meets Instagram’s current system requirements. Running an outdated operating system can prevent certain features from showing up. Updating your OS or switching to a more recent device model often resolves the issue.
Alternative Posting Methods
If the app still limits you to 10 photos, try posting through the Instagram web version on your browser. Instagram often tests or introduces features on the web before fully rolling them out to the mobile app. Uploading directly from the web may unlock the option to add more than 10 photos even if your app doesn’t support it yet.
Another option is to use approved scheduling or publishing tools. These platforms allow you to prepare and upload carousel posts with more than 10 photos, giving you early access to features that may not yet be live on your personal app. While not everyone prefers third-party tools, they can be a temporary solution until the feature becomes universally available on all devices.
Community-Shared Workarounds
Sometimes, users find creative fixes that aren’t officially documented but have proven to work for many people. A common suggestion is to clear cache multiple times or reinstall Instagram more than once, as this forces the app to refresh and sometimes enables new features. Another widely discussed method is the VPN approach, where switching your virtual location to a region where the update has already rolled out may unlock the 20-photo feature on your account. While this isn’t guaranteed, it has worked for many users waiting for regional rollouts.
Pro Tip: If none of these solutions work, the most effective long-term fix is to keep your app updated and stay patient. Instagram gradually activates features for different regions and account types, so eventually, the expanded carousel option will be available to everyone.
Best Practices for Instagram Carousels with More Than 10 Photos
Posting carousels with more than 10 photos can be a game-changer for engagement, but success depends on how strategically you use them. From choosing the right posting time to structuring your content like a story, the details matter. Below are some best practices that will help you make the most of Instagram’s expanded carousel feature.
Optimal Posting Times
Timing is one of the biggest factors that influence engagement. Posting when your audience is most active increases the chances of getting likes, comments, and shares. In general, weekdays between 6 a.m. to 11 a.m. and 7 p.m. to 10 p.m. are strong windows for posting, since people are often checking their phones before work, during lunch breaks, or in the evenings. On weekends, late mornings tend to perform best as users are more relaxed and browsing casually.
If you’re using a business or creator account, take advantage of Instagram Insights. This tool shows you exactly when your followers are most active, helping you schedule posts for maximum visibility and interaction.
Storytelling with Carousels
The expanded 20-photo feature opens up new creative possibilities for storytelling. Instead of simply posting random images, think of your carousel as a mini-album or visual journey. For example, you can showcase an event timeline, present a step-by-step tutorial, or highlight a before-and-after transformation.
Make sure your first image is the strongest—this acts as the hook that determines whether users will swipe through the rest of your post. Complement your visuals with engaging captions to guide viewers, create curiosity, and encourage interaction. Treat the carousel like a slideshow where each slide builds on the previous one.
Technical Tips for Quality Posts
High-quality visuals are key to making carousels stand out. Stick to Instagram’s recommended dimensions:
- Square images → 1080 x 1080 pixels
- Portrait images → 1080 x 1350 pixels
Also, keep your file sizes optimized. Try to keep photos under 30MB and videos under 650MB for up to 10 minutes to ensure smooth uploads. This prevents delays or compression that could lower quality.
For added creativity, experiment with seamless carousels—a technique where each photo flows naturally into the next, creating the effect of a single panoramic image spread across multiple slides. This unique style grabs attention and encourages users to swipe through every photo.
Pro Tip: Always test different posting styles—sometimes storytelling works best, while other times high-quality standalone images in a carousel perform better. Reviewing your analytics will help you understand what resonates most with your audience.
Final Verdict
Instagram’s expansion of carousel posts to 20 photos or videos has opened new doors for creativity and engagement. Whether you’re sharing memories, promoting products, or telling a story, the key lies in how strategically you use the feature. By keeping your app updated, troubleshooting common issues, and applying best practices like posting at peak times and using strong visuals, you can maximize the impact of every carousel. If you don’t yet see the 20-photo option, don’t worry—it’s gradually rolling out worldwide, and following the fixes outlined in this guide will help you stay ready when it arrives.
Frequently asked Questions (FAQs)
Why can’t I post more than 10 photos on Instagram?
You may still be limited due to an outdated app version, regional rollout delays, or device compatibility issues. Updating your app and OS often solves the problem.
Is the 20-photo carousel available to everyone?
Not yet. Instagram releases new features gradually by region and account type. Some users will gain access earlier than others.
What is the best time to post a carousel on Instagram?
The most effective times are weekdays between 6 a.m.–11 a.m. and 7 p.m.–10 p.m., while weekends perform well in late mornings. Checking your Instagram Insights gives the most accurate times for your audience.
Do carousels perform better than single-image posts?
Yes, carousels often see higher engagement because they encourage users to swipe, spend more time on the post, and interact with multiple visuals in one upload.
How can I make my carousel posts more engaging?
Start with a strong first image, use storytelling techniques, write compelling captions, and experiment with seamless or panoramic-style carousels to keep users swiping.
